Melanesia: What's the difference between the plan sets?

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Anonymous (not verified)
Melanesia: What's the difference between the plan sets?
I'm thinking hard about the Melanesia, and noticing that there are three different ways to buy plans: paddle, sail or "sail and paddle". I get the difference between the paddle and sail versions (the paddle version wouldn't include info on mast, sail and rigging, of course), but I'm not sure I understand what more I get by purchasing the "both" version. That is, what does the "paddle" version of the plans have that the "sail" version doesn't? --Rich in Colorado, USA
Anonymous (not verified)
Re: Melanesia: What's the difference between the plan sets?
Rich, I have the sail and paddle plans. THe build for the main hull is the same. The paddle plans give instructions and drawings on a laminated, bent paddling ama and the rigging drawings. The sail plans give the instructions and drawings on mast, sails, and rigging for sail. It is just what they list, you get both sets of plans. Beautiful set of plans! Thanks Jon http://www.flsail.com
Anonymous (not verified)
Re: Melanesia: What's the difference between the plan sets?
Thanks for the info, Jon. Any opinions on its suitability as a first boat? I'm completely new to this, though I've been reading about building boats for a couple years. (Great site, by the way - I could spend a lot of time reading about your projects!)
Anonymous (not verified)
Re: Melanesia: What's the difference between the plan sets?
Sorry for the delay in getting back here. I think this would be a fine first project. The plans a very clear and well illustrated. The only reason I haven't built mine yet is lack of space and I'm about to get married. When we find a home and get settled it is between the Melanesia, the Wa'apa, or the Ulua. 3 outriggers with different build styles. There are free plans for canoes out there if you want to practice first http://bateau.com/freeplans.php I went that way when I built my light sculling trainer instead of the Melanesia. I kinda wish I had the outrigger now though since I sold my sailboat. Go for it, they are really cool plans and this think looks like a blast! Jon http://www.flsail.com
Anonymous (not verified)
Re: Melanesia: What's the difference between the plan sets?
Dude, The only difference is a couple bucks more for the saling and the paddling version. Hull is exactly the same. The outriggers are different. The sailing canoe has a larger outrigger. The plans carry plans to make the riggers and paddles from bought lumber, or finding wood in the forest, and how to make various sail types. I recommend absolutely getting the plans for "both" boats. Build the hull first, then the outrigger size you want to use immediately, then build the other when you feel like it. Get both plans! It is a great education, whether or not you build both types! Happy paddling/sailing! Bob Buettgens